I apologize, I should have mention that STNA stands for State Tested Nurse Aide, it's the same as a CNA, Certified Nursing Assistant. It just that in Ohio you have to be State Tested instead of certified which is still the same.

May 1, '09

A STNA is a state certified nursing assistant. I believe Ohio is one of the states that uses STNAs, sort of like LPN/LVN. The most desirable quality - you gotta have a warm heart - all the rest you can learn. Who interviews - in LTC usually the DON.

May 1, '09

Just like in New Hampshire we have LNA (liscenced nurse's aide) and not CNA I was so confused when I started school in New York lol

May 1, '09

I think the big one is a willingness to do the job. It's the bottom of the totem pole and the job as well as the pay reflect that status. But if you don't want to do the work then don't take the job! It's hard work and not for the faint of heart!

I'm not one to think everyone needs to go above and beyond every time all the time as I think that's unrealistic. However, if you aren't willing to clean up incontinent patients, give baths, or be willing to assist patients (even those who may not need it but simply want it) with pretty much anything, don't become a CNA because that's a big chunk of the job description.

I struggle with tolerating people who are lazy and unwilling to do the job they are being paid to do--and that goes for any job! I don't like nurses who do their assessments from the desk and can't be bothered to answer a call light because they're too busy texting on the cellphone they aren't even supposed to have. I can deal with folks who do the bare minimum, but if you can't be bothered to do that much then please find another line of work more suited to your level of ambition.